On Monday, I’ll be arriving in Las Vegas for my 13th Autodesk University. I haven’t missed one since I started attending in 2004. I’m always amazed that, after so many years, there’s still something fresh and new to learn every time.

One way it keeps from going stale? The themes of AU change every year. In previous years, there has been a lot of attention on BIM, or 3D Printing, or Making, or Fabrication. Many of those topics will probably be featured again, but the AEC Community this year will be training its spotlight on Connection.

The phone in my pocket already connects me to the world in ways I couldn’t have imagined even a few years ago. What other opportunities are out there for exchanging data and communicating ideas? What does BIM look like in a connected world?

The AEC Community will be addressing those topics and more, with four areas of focus:

• Connecting Insights: Data Collection and Analysis
• Connecting Delivery: Design to Fabrication to Field.
• Connecting Assets: Facility Operation & Management
• Connecting Teams: Around the Block or Around the World

For a little eye candy, here’s a video from the Autodesk team.

It’ll be interesting to see what’s coming for each of these ideas. Personally, I’m looking forward to connecting with many of you! AU is a great time for catching up with old friends and making new ones. Will I see you there?